ENTERTAINMENT journalist and owner of website Showbizone Mandla Motau has died!
Mandla lost his battle with a brain tumour yesterday morning.
Born in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, Mandla was very popular in the entertainment industry and the SunTeam spoke to some of his close friends and colleagues upon his death.
- DJ and producer Mahoota told Daily Sun: “He was a very sweet, hard-working and humble guy. We worked on a lot of projects with him, including our spring bash festivals. We have lost a great person.”
- Award-winning kwaito artist Professor Langa said: “Mandla never treated me like I was a celebrity or just another story to him.
“He was like my brother. He gave me my first interview and did all my biographies.
“We all make mistakes as humans and instead of publicising them, he would help you. We would tease each other a lot and he was instrumental in my career.”
- Businesswoman Bhoza Mphela tweeted: “We were hopeful that you would recover, maybe for our own selfish reasons to see you laugh. Thank you for you.”
- Actress Rami Chuene tweeted: “Sad to hear about the passing of Mandla Motau. Love and strength to his family, colleagues and friends.”
- Entertainment commentator Phil Mphela wrote: “Just heard that Mandla is gone. No words. We will miss your crazy antics.”
Mandla worked for and contributed to several publications, including Daily Sun, Sunday Sun, City Press, Ilanga and City Pulse. He also contributed to radio shows on Ligwalagwala FM and YFM.
Mandla also was on the judging panels of award shows like the Naledi Theatre Awards, the SAMAs and the Duku Duku Awards.